Buying A Smart Device For Your Kid? Take this quiz first.

Many smart toys and gadgets promise fun and learning for your kids, but not all of them may be as safe as they seem.

As parents and guardians, one of your top priorities is protecting your kids’ online activities and this extends to new smart gadgets. Before making that purchase, check first what privacy considerations you should be aware of.

Some devices require personalization and may ask details about your kid like name, age, birthday, gender, address, and may even ask you to provide a profile photo. Does the device require you to input that kind of data?

YES

NO

2/8

Can the device track your kid's location? More info

Some devices need GPS to function. GPS-enabled devices allow the physical location of your kid to be known, either by geotagging, location tracking, or recorded whereabouts. Does the device use GPS?

YES

NO

3/8

Can the device take pictures or videos? More info

Devices with a camera can take photos and even record video footage. Those photos or images can be used for a number of purposes. Does the device have this capability?

YES

NO

4/8

Does the device have a mic that can record audio? More info

Devices with a microphone can listen in for live audio prompts or commands from your kid and sometimes even save the recording. Does the device have this capability?

YES

NO

5/8

Does the device allow communication with your kid? More info

Some devices allow two-way voice communication where another person can interact with your kid and vice versa. Devices like these can function like walkie-talkies, telephones, or even videophones. Does the device have this functionality?

YES

NO

6/8

Does the device allow sending and receiving of text messages? More info

Some devices can allow your kid to send and receive messages through a chat or text interface. Think of it as SMS or chat rooms for kids. Does this device let you or another person to chat with your kid?

YES

NO

7/8

Does the device use speech or facial recognition? More info

Some smart devices have features like speech or facial recognition that are used to authorize users and improve responses. Is this device requiring you to record your kid's voice or physical appearance?

YES

NO

8/8

Does the device save your kid's info on the internet? More info

Some smart devices collect, process, and store data on the internet or the cloud. If it requires a voice prompt, for example, the device processes voice requests on the cloud and comes back with a response. Some other devices with cameras, on the other hand, use cloud storage to save your kid’s photos. Does this device require the internet to function? Does it store files on the internet?

YES

NO

The results should not put you off from getting a smart device for your kid. Smart devices can still provide your kid additional avenues for learning and recreation; you just have to know how to secure them. To learn simple and practical smart device security tips, check out our handy infographic and e-guide.

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